Any type of flea is a nuisance. But there’s a particularly tenacious species that holds onto its host for dear life.

The aptly named sticktight flea usually infests poultry by partially embedding itself in the skin around the eyes and other bare areas. The bird’s eyes can swell shut, making it impossible to find food. Some animals starve or die from anemia caused by scores of blood-sucking fleas.

Cats and dogs in contact with poultry can also become infested with sticktight fleas, especially along the edges of their ears or in the grooves of their foot pads.

These stubborn hangers-on are best removed with tweezers. But severe infestations may require careful treatment with an appropriate flea powder. And as with any flea problem, prevention of future infestations depends on treating the environment with animal-safe pesticides.